BOSTON — Despite a shaky opening period in which the Bruins were outshot by the visiting Avalanche, 13-9, the teams are still scoreless through 20 minutes. Here are a few things of note during the first stanza.

It’s safe to say that Tuukka Rask has looked sharp in the early going. He stopped six Avs shots during their two power plays and has put himself in good position to make the initial stop. He still needs a little work controlling his rebounds but so far so good for the third-year goaltender as he has stopped all.

One of the questions before the start of the year regarded the second line and who would replace Mark Recchi’s void at right wing. Well it looks like Rich Peverley is fitting in nicely as he gives the unit a speed threat for Brad Marchand and Patrice Bergeron.

Despite a couple of positives, the Bruins were clearly outplayed in the first period. The defense looked a little out-of-place during the two penalty kills early on and the offense is still looking for a little more rhythm with their odd man rushes.

Even with just one power play, which took just six seconds, the stats aren’t helping with the struggling man advantage. The Black and Gold have not scored a PP goal in 10 straight chances and are just 1-for-11 in the early going. The Avs had six shots in their three power plays but couldn’t convert either.